Outdoor Chattanooga begins its Winter Workshops series tonight, Jan. 14, at 6 with a session on bicycle maintenance.
Continuing through February, the weekly sessions offer classroom-based outdoor education on seven varied topics. Classes are free, open to all ages and last about 90 minutes. All take place at the Outdoor Chattanooga center, 200 River St. in Coolidge Park.
For tonight’s Bicycle Maintenance 101, James Eubank, the on-staff bicycle guru, will cover three basics. How to:
* Fix a flat tire and prevent future flats (with hands-on practice).
* Quickly clean and lube your bike with minimal equipment.
* Conquer the daunting task of tuning the rear gear derailleur with ease.
“These three topics will be happening at the same time but in different areas of our building so you will have to decide what skill you really want/need to acquire,” according to organizers.
No previous bike knowledge is required. Tools will be provided, but all are pieces serious cyclists should own. The hands-on nature of the evening may result in hands or clothing getting dirty or greasy, so dress accordingly.
Participants may bring their own bike for the demonstration or use one from the Outdoor Chattanooga fleet.
Registration is not required. For more information, call 423-643-6888 or visit www.outdoorchattanooga.com.
STILL TO COME
Note: Outdoor Chattanooga’s Winter Workshops series skips Feb. 11 for a screening of the documentary “An American Ascent” at Memorial Auditorium.
* Jan. 21: “Planning a Winter Hike,” with staffer Zach Bopp and a local podiatrist
* Jan. 28: “Freshwater Snorkeling,” by Jim Herrig, a Cherokee National Forest aquatic biologist
* Feb. 4: “How To Poop in the Woods” with staffer Terri Chapin, a Leave No Trace master educator
* Feb. 18: “Navigate With Map and Compass,” with orienteering expert and Marine Corps veteran Alan Archer
* Feb. 25: “Moving Wetlands,” guest speaker Bill Phillips on wetland and stream restoration
* March 3: “The Adventure of Weather” with NewsChannel 9 meteorologist Brian Smith